Hardware Reference
In-Depth Information
Conductive Textiles
Not all conductors are created equal! Conductive thread is quirkier than wire and some-
times deceptively simple and heartbreakingly frustrating to work with. Silver-coated fibers
can tarnish over time, rendering circuits inert after a few years. Stainless steel thread
(shown in
Figure 9.7
) doesn't tarnish, but it's so springy that its knots have to be sealed
with strong adhesive (clear nail polish or super-glue) to keep them from coming undone.
(Source: Image courtesy of
adafruit.com
)
Figure 9.7
Conductive Thread.
When shopping for conductive thread and ribbon, look for solid metal fibers over
plated ones. Small-gauge threads can be used in the bobbin of your sewing machine,
while fuzzy yarns are great for knitting or felting sensors or modding up your own pair of
touchscreen gloves. Conductive fabrics are mostly plated in silver or copper (not solid
metal), and conductivity will vary depending on the fabric's metal content and whether
the textile is knit or woven. There is even conductive hook and loop material (Velcro).
